Amish Style Vacations in Lancaster, PA

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Most of us spend our day to day lives feeling pulled in a thousand directions, and almost everyone I meet classifies themselves as “busy.” When it’s time to get away, scenic Lancaster, PA is one of the best places around for a slow-paced, laid back atmosphere where the whole family can unwind. There is plenty to do (and eat), but you will never feel overwhelmed, rushed, or hurried. These are some of our favorite Amish style vacations in Lancaster.

Amish Style Vacations

 

The Strasburg Railroad has been operating as a tourist railroad for more than 50 years and has acquired—and restored—historic trains from all over the US. Many train fanatics consider the Strasburg Railrod the best historic railroad in America, and for good reason: It’s one of the few places where you and you family can ride in an authentically restored rail car pulled by a real coal-burning steam engine. The station has also been restored and beautifully maintained and is a source of pride for the local people. Every time we visit, we truly sense the enjoyment and passion that the conductors and employees have for their jobs as they take their time with every child, posing for photos and answering train trivia with a smile. As you ride through Amish country, you’ll learn about steam railroading, agriculture, Amish culture, and Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, so kick back and enjoy your family and your little ones, and let your worries slip away. They’re little for only so long, and riding in a real train will be a real delight. Contact- 717-687-7522; .com/

 

The Amish Village is located almost in the direct center of Pennsylvania Dutch Country- and in my opinion, there is no better place  to learn about the Amish culture and heritage then in this authentic working farm.

You and your family will hear directly from local Amish people, and can ask any questions you may have. It’s a fun, interactive way to experience the Amish culture and way of life that has remained almost unchanged for 300 years. You’ll also see interesting modifications that the locals have made using the technology of the surrounding “English. (which is what they call anyone who’s not Amish). We were endlessly surprised at their ingenuity . On the tour you’ll see an Amish one-room schoolhouse, farm animals (which a huge hit with my pre-school aged son), a smokehouse market, blacksmith shop, and quite a few buggies, plows, and tools.  After taking the guided house and farm tour and exploring the 12-acre Village grounds, be sure to stop by one of the shops on the property. For a very small fee, you can try some of the local hand-made treats (and you’ll be glad you did–whoopee  pies are not to be missed). Contact- (717) 687-8511; 

 

Anytime I travel to someplace new, I try to eat where the locals do. And in Lancaster, you won’t want to miss the Good ‘N Plenty Restaurant. Known for- and proud of- its family-style dining, you and your party will experience authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking and flavors that will make you smile long after your vacation is over. Everyone (whether you know them or not) is seated together at long dining tables, which gives you a chance to meet people from all over the country (and the world, if you’re lucky). During our lunch, we sat with a pregnant New York businesswoman who had driven several hours to satisfy a craving for Amish cuisine, a couple from Maryland, and a family from Germany. It felt like a global Thanksgiving, with many introductions, discussions of our hometowns, and most importantly- please pass the potatoes. (A word of advice:  bring home some of their award-winning baked goods.) Contact- 717-394-7111; http://www.goodnplenty.com/

 

 

 

 Sam is the author of Have Sippy Will Travel. Her great articles about traveling with kids make any family vacation a cinch!